JUNE 21–23, 2027

Collegiate Leadership Advocacy Summit

Group photo of attendees of the 2026 NAfME Collegiate Leadership Advocacy Summit - Photo by © Ashlee Wilcox Photography, LLC

The annual NAfME Collegiate Leadership Advocacy Summit (CLAS) is an exciting multiday event that brings together NAfME Collegiate members from all over the nation for leadership-centric learning sessions, advocacy training, and professional networking.

The event concludes with NAfME’s annual Hill Day event, during which all attendees head to Capitol Hill to meet with congressional representatives and staffers to share their story and advocate at the federal level alongside leaders in their state on behalf of music education.

View highlights from the 2026 Collegiate Leadership Advocacy Summit by reading the recap blog, Building Bridges: The 2026 NAfME Collegiate Leadership Advocacy Summit.

“It was an incredible opportunity, and I truly learned so much and made so many valuable connections.”

—Emily McManus, Western Carolina University,
2026 Collegiate Leadership Advocacy Summit Attendee

2027 NAfME Collegiate Summit Information

  • Dates: June 21–23, 2027
  • Location: Reston, Virginia
  • Registration details coming soon!
Two collegiate members speak in a congressional office during the 2026 NAfME Hill Day - Photo by © Ashlee Wilcox Photography, LLC

Key Takeaways from the Summit

Attendees will attend invaluable leadership training from the country's leaders in music education
Attendees will network with NAfME Collegiate peers from around the country
Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of education policy and the impact of advocacy at the nation’s capital​
Attendees can share their story of the impact music education has on them with federal legislators
Attendees can spread the impact of this event with their chapter and community

“This was an unforgettable experience. Not only did I get to collaborate with and learn from renowned music educators and leaders, I also got to engage in inspiring discussions and make powerful connections…”

—Nadia Johnson, University of Michigan,
2026 Collegiate Leadership Advocacy Summit Attendee

Three collegiate attendees of the 2026 NAfME Collegiate Leadership Advocacy Summit pictured laughing - Photo by © Ashlee Wilcox Photography, LLC

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